Native Public Media Communications Advocacy

NPM’s mission is to promote healthy, engaged, and independent Native communities through expanding communications capacity on underserved Tribal lands by empowering a strong, proud Native voice in media. As a coordinating entity for 574 federally recognized Tribes, 59 Tribal radio stations, and three television stations, NPM provides advocacy, centralized resources, and strategic services designed to successfully and sustainably develop Indian Country’s communications systems. The organization’s four main competency areas align with the Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation’s philanthropic priority to be part of the change in the world by building peace and community through the intersection of media, technology, and journalism. Funding will support core expenses for the organization’s Policy Program, including virtual attendance at national policy meetings, legal consultation, and staff time.

NPM’s media justice work focuses on providing the access, knowledge, and resources necessary to ensure an active Native voice that increases the ability of Tribal communities to fully participate in and benefit from the Information Age. NPM monitors the development and implementation of policies, rules, and regulations that impact the ability of Tribal communities to actively engage in the communications ecosystem. NPM also issues legal and impact analysis; ensures Native representation and advocacy within the media democracy movement; publishes relevant and groundbreaking research; responds to public policy filings and comments; and educates Tribal communities regarding ways they can mobilize and actively engage in political outcomes resulting in media prosperity and cultural stability.

Bridging the communications divide for Indian Country requires an in-depth understanding of Tribal sovereignty concerns, expert knowledge of policy development, and the capacity to collaborate with intergovernmental stakeholders. NPM is Indian Country’s “go-to” organization to represent Tribal communities in telecommunications and media. Media has a vital role in supporting economic and community development and is tied directly to the Nation-building efforts of sovereign Tribes. Tribal citizens are the stakeholders and beneficiaries of NPM’s work and are therefore continuously consulted throughout the development and implementation of policies and projects. As a direct result of NPM’s work, Tribal communities have representation at a critical moment in the evolution of media, technology, and communications.

History has shown that without an active presence advocating on behalf of Native Americans, Indian Country’s invisibility subjects it to the U.S. polices of removal, assimilation, and acculturation—policies that have proven destructive and detrimental to Tribal sovereignty. NPM vigilantly maintains an active presence within national and international bodies, among funders that support media rights, and throughout the 574 federally recognized Native Tribes that comprise Indian Country. These efforts are not one way. NPM facilitates an open, inclusive, and cyclical flow of information from Tribal citizens and leaders to policymakers and influencers, then back to the inner and outer reaches of Indian Country. NPM’s ultimate power is the ability to listen and advocate for Tribal sovereignty.